1. the united nations, mun, and wasmunstudents.washington.edu/wasmun/docs/delman2005.pdf · the...

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WASMUN 2005 Delegate Manual

1. The United Nations, MUN, and WASMUN Overview and History of the United Nations and MUN Countries committed to preserving peace through international cooperation and collective security established the United Nations on October 24, 1945. Today 191 countries are members, nearly every nation in the world. The United Nations is comprised of more than 30 affiliated organizations. The UN Charter outlines the four main purposes of the United Nations as the following:

1. “To save succeeding generations from the scourge of war, which twice in our lifetime

brought untold sorrow to mankind; 2. “To reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights, in the dignity and worth of the human

person, in the equal rights of men and women and of nations large and small; 3. “To establish conditions under which justice and respect for the obligations arising from

treaties and other sources of international law can be maintained; and 4. “To promote social progress and better standards of life in larger freedom.” May these goals guide you in your studies and deliberations during WASMUN 2005. Overview and History of WASMUN The Model United Nations has existed since 1945 as a forum for involving students in the processes of the United Nations, international leadership, and current international affairs. Model United Nations conferences are held in cities throughout the world and range from 20 to over 2,000 delegates. The first annual Washington State Model United Nations conference was a joint initiative between the World Affairs Council and students at the University of Washington, and convened in March 2001. High school students from throughout Western Washington gathered for three days at the University of Washington to discuss global issues and practice their skills as delegates. In April 2005, the University of Washington, in partnership with the World Affairs Council, will host the fifth annual Washington State Model United Nations conference. Over 500 students from high schools across the Pacific Northwest will assemble at the University of Washington campus for an intensive two-day conference simulating United Nations committees. WASMUN delegates will engage in negotiating culturally appropriate and viable solutions to pressing world problems, examining and discussing complex international issues, consensus building, caucusing, and diplomacy.

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2. Preparation Guide The following are six essential steps in preparing for the WASMUN conference:

1. Research your assigned country. Knowing your country well is the most important step in the preparation process. See appendix 13.1 for a comprehensive list.

2. Research your committee and your committee’s topics.

3. Prepare two Position Papers. This one-page paper is a short outline of the position of your

country on a certain topic. Write one Position Paper on each of the two topics assigned to your committee. First drafts are due February 10, 2005. Position Papers will be reviewed by your committee chairperson and returned to you for final drafting. Final drafts will be due March 25, 2005. Remember to prepare your position papers early and leave plenty of time for peer and advisor editing.

4. Practice these effective UN Delegate skills in advance of the conference (further

explanation beginning with Section 8):

• Writing working papers; • Writing resolutions; • Amending resolutions; • Caucusing; and • Public speaking.

5. Review the WASMUN Rules of Procedure (see Section 12) and plan to bring them with

you to the conference. Study and know the “Parliamentary Points.”

6. Know your “Delegate Responsibilities,” as follows, and come prepared for the conference.

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3. Responsibilities Delegate Responsibilities Delegates are students participating in committee activities of the WASMUN Conference.

Delegates will: • Find time for regular delegation meetings to keep the delegation on track. Develop a

systematic plan of individual and group study: o Read the Delegate Manual; o Divide responsibility and set deadlines; o Have a session on Parliamentary Procedure; o Have sessions to practice public speaking; and o Do a review of the UN structure, especially the Charter’s provisions (www.un.org

– see “About the United Nations” for more information). • Prepare to:

o Express the actual positions of your country, not just what you think; o Listen to views of others and be ready to defend and/or modify positions if

necessary and; o Negotiate with other delegations (groups of delegates) to gain support for a

resolution. • Dress in formal business attire. Alternately, you may wear formal dress representative of

your nation for committee sessions; however, sneakers or jeans are not acceptable. Males should wear a suit or sportcoat, and a tie; females should wear a dress, suit, or professional pants.

• Follow the instructions given by advisors or WASMUN conference staff both inside and outside of committee sessions.

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Faculty Advisor Responsibilities Faculty advisors are staff members assigned to oversee MUN activities at participating schools.

Faculty Advisors will: • Assist delegates as they prepare for the Model United Nations; • Facilitate delegates in their extensive research efforts; • Work with delegates as they discuss the foreign policy goals of various regions; • Provide guidance relating to research, the writing of position papers, and resolutions; • Assist in role-playing and parliamentary issues; • Encourage and support students’ efforts.

Following the Conference, faculty should take the lead in follow-up discussions and debriefing to bring a sense of conclusion to the experience. Chairperson Responsibilities Chairpersons are students from the UW who make sure that committee sessions progress in an orderly fashion.

Chairpersons will: • Be thoroughly familiar with the Rules of Procedure; • Read the Delegate Manual and attend the Delegate Workshops; • Call the sessions to order and preside continuously; • Have an agenda and strategy for conducting the committee sessions, announcing both at the beginning of the session and allowing time for questions regarding these items; • Remind the delegates of the Code of Conduct, and briefly cover the Rules of Procedure; • Be knowledgeable about their committee topics and; • Be fair, honest, and respectful in presiding over all committee affairs.

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4. Timeline Registration

• Priority Registration October 6 – December 12, 2004 • If Unfilled, Registration Ends – March 1, 2005

Delegate Workshops Workshops strengthen participation in WASMUN by allowing delegates to interact before the Conference. Advisors and parents are always welcome to attend all workshops.

• Introduction to WASMUN – November 20, 2004 Delegates and advisors will learn the “ins and outs” of WASMUN. Participants will learn what to do to prepare for the conference, what to expect at the conference, and have the opportunity to ask questions. Chairpersons and organizers will be present.

• Researching for WASMUN – January 22, 2005

Delegates of WASMUN will be trained in research techniques. Focus will be on resources that will help students to represent their countries accurately and to write their position papers correctly. UW students will assist delegates in understanding the history and core issues behind their committee topics and answer any questions.

. • Gaining an International Perspective – March 5, 2005

This workshop will be presented in regional groups. Local experts will help students to understand the perspective of their country or their country’s region as it relates to the topics being covered at WASMUN. The goal of this workshop is to help students gain the perspective of the country they will represent.

Please note: It is recommended that your school RSVP if you are planning to attend the workshops. This will enable us to ensure that your country and/or committee topics are well represented. Position Papers

• Position Papers (on both Committee Topics) due – February 10, 2005. For more on position papers, see Chapter 7.

• Edited Positions Papers mailed back to schools – February 28, 2005. • Final Drafts due – March 25, 2005.

Conference

• WASMUN 2005 – April 1 & 2, 2005

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WASMUN Conference April 1 & 2, 2005 The University of Washington

Friday, April 1, 2004 • 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. - Registration: Delegates sign in for their committee sessions • 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. - Opening Ceremony • 10:15 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. - Committee Sessions • 12:30 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Lunch Break • 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. - Committee Sessions • 5:15 p.m. - 6:15 p.m. - Delegate Reception • 6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. - Committee Sessions Saturday, April 2, 2004 • 8:45 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. – Morning Briefing • 9:15 a.m. -12:00 p.m. – Committee Sessions • 12:00 p.m. - 12:10 p.m. – Break • 12:10 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Working Lunch Break • 1:00 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. – Committee Sessions • 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. – Closing Ceremony

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5. Committees and Topics Note: The ICJ will not be represented at WASMUN 2005.

Security Council (SC) The Security Council’s primary responsibility is to maintain international peace and security. It is organized to function continuously; thus a representative of each of its members must be present at all times at the UN Headquarters.

Chair: Sean Casey Open Agenda Security Council delegates will determine the agenda and topics to be discussed on the day of the conference. This topic will be a current crisis at that time. It is therefore advised that each delegate be familiar with current events and crisis around the world. The delegates in this committee will draft position papers on a variety of topics, as outlined in the topic synopsis.

General Assembly: Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISC) The General Assembly serves as the main deliberating organ of the United Nations. This subcommittee was specifically created to deal with issues involving: Disarmament and International Security.

Chair: Eric Beaty Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons As military technology of increasing sophistication spreads around the world, especially in the conflict-ridden areas of Africa, South America and the Middle East, it is one of many indirect causes of the constant warfare that plagues these areas. Light arms, specifically assault rifles, machine guns, and rocket-propelled grenades, are smuggled into conflict zones, allowing groups without indigenous manufacturing capability to fight their wars with modern weapons. With the end of the Cold War, most militant groups are not backed by either the USA or the former USSR, formerly the largest direct suppliers of weapons to Third World belligerents and the largest producers of military technology. Consequently, weapons reaching warring parties today have probably been either stolen or manufactured without license before being sold on the black market. A resolution on this issue should address the issues of trafficking in light arms, manufacturing of light weapons, and possibly plans to deal with those weapons already in circulation. It should be remembered when preparing for this topic that the weapons in question are light arms, and this topic does not encompass the proliferation of heavy weapon systems. Reduction of Military Budgets and Transparency in Military Expenditures

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On average, military budgets have been on the decline since the end of the Cold War. The greatest cuts have occurred in the former USSR, followed by those in the United States and Europe. The end of most realpolitik sponsorship has led to a less pronounced decline in Latin America and Africa as well. The only region of the world in which budgets have been consistently rising is Asia, where spending, much of it in the PRC, is increasing steadily. Military spending can have negative impacts on economic growth when it consumes a significant portion of GDP/GNP. Africa is home to most nations whose military spending is at a burdensome level, and economic growth will be difficult without a reduction in African military budgets. Transparency in budgets is an important measure to help manage a nation's finances and minimize graft and waste. In military budgets it is an important aid to policymakers, especially those tasked with enforcing bans and embargoes of military technologies. Resolutions on this topic should be focused on promoting joint efforts by all nations in a crisis area to act together to solve their problems.

General Assembly: Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee ESL (SHC-ESL) The General Assembly serves as the main deliberating organ of the United Nations. This subcommittee was specifically created to deal with: Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural issues. *This committee is designed as a non-required option for English as a Second Language (ESL) students.

Chair: Ashley Beckett Modern Slavery Although slavery was internationally abolished in 1926 by the Geneva Convention on the Abolition of Slavery, it persists today with an estimated 200 million persons held in slavery worldwide. The Convention on the Abolition of Slavery defines a slave as “the status or condition of a person over whom any or all of the powers attaching to the right of ownership are exercised.” Slavery includes ownership by sale, debt bondage, forced marriage and laborers coerced by mental or physical threats. Slaves include men, women and children forced into prostitution, labor or domestic servitude. Modern slavery persists throughout geographic regions and regardless of age, sex, or race. Many times families or groups of people are subject to multiple forms of slavery, linked by extreme poverty. This committee must draw upon past UN work and recommend new solutions to prevent slavery. These solutions should address all aspects of slavery, including child labor, human trafficking, prostitution and debt bondage. They may include punitive recommendations, labeling of non-slave produced goods (to encourage consumer action), encouraging nations to make modern forms of slavery illegal, and fighting extreme poverty. Urban Migration and Poverty The United Nations estimates that for the first time in history the majority of the world's population will live in cities by 2007. Furthermore, urbanization trends differ greatly between the

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developed world and the lesser developed world, with 99% of urban migration over the next three decades expected to be in developing nations. Urban migration is attributed to many causes, including governmental and private investment bias favoring urban areas, and reduced profitability of agricultural work. The worldwide rural-urban migration trend often results in overpopulated cities, sometimes in mega-cities, with inadequate housing and infrastructure. This overpopulation leads to squatting and shantytowns with poor sanitation. Oftentimes new city-dwellers cannot find work and must beg or work for below-standard wages. New technologies and infrastructures allow for reverse migration as well, and migration is in some regions becoming a free flow of labor. In a resolution the committee should address urban-rural disparities, inadequate housing and infrastructure and rural development. Solutions may include increased urban planning, integrated urban-rural development, and rural education programs to empower the poor or expanded infrastructure to benefit rural areas.

UN Development Program (UNDP) The Development Program provides development advice for the United Nations. The mission of the UNDP is to advocate policy for reducing poverty. Its core programs focus on countries that are home to 90 percent of the world’s poorest people.

Chair: Glorya Cho

Political Corruption in Developing Countries The UNDP states that “good governance and human development are indivisible.” On January 28, 1997 the UN General Assembly Resolution A/RES/51/59 was adopted as the UN’s mandate in aiding developing nations to combat political corruption. The UNDP recognizes the efforts of nations around the world in instituting systems of effective governance. Transparency and accountability of leaders are fundamental responsibilities of governments to their citizenry. Globalization has created a level of interdependencies among nations never before seen. These interdependencies remind all members of the international community how one decision in any part of the world has widespread effects. Political decisions have strong effects on either increased world stability or instability. Political decisions particularly play a significant role in the reduction of poverty and sustainable development. For these reasons, the UNDP is committed to curtailing political corruption. This committee will focus on creating solutions to the problem of political corruption in developing countries. Debt Relief The plight of the world's poorest countries is exacerbated by debilitating national debt. The Heavily Indebted Poor Countries initiative (HIPC) is a mechanism of debt relief jointly administered by the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. While the UNDP endorses the laudible efforts of the HIPC, HIPC foreign ministers have run into considerable difficulties relating to "defining debt sustainability, linking debt relief to Millenium Development Goal financing, expanding country eligibility, revisiting the nature and scope of conditionalities,

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avoiding over-optimistic forecast, addressing the crippling effect of litigation, and increasing HIPC funding." The focus of this committee will be to create feasible solutions to the barriers posed by debt relief for the purpose of allowing developing nations to direct funds towards programs that will alleviate the burdens of their displaced populations.

UN Commission on Human Rights (UNCHR) This committee drafted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and has since conducted investigations on human rights violations. Recently they have begun advising and providing assistance to states to help them guarantee rights to all citizens. Special emphasis is placed on economic, social, and cultural rights.

Chair: Alex Kim Human Rights in the Fight Against Terrorism Nearly a year and a half after the attacks on September 11th, 2001, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said to the Security Council, “Our responses to terrorism, as well as our efforts to thwart it and prevent it, should uphold the human rights that terrorists aim to destroy. Respect for human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law are essential tools in the effort to combat terrorism – not privileges to be sacrificed at a time of tension.” His words accompany a growing concern in the international community that regard for human rights have fallen in the wake of the modern “war on terror.” The threat of terrorism has been used as justification in many nations for new restrictions on speech and mobility; often, these restrictions disproportionately affect certain ethnic groups more heavily than others. In addition, the nascence of the war on terror has also given birth to new practices with respect to the detainment and treatment of captured foreign nationals. Even the term “terrorism”, inherently vague, has been used indiscriminately to allow for broad expansion of government authority. Most recently, Russian president Vladimir Putin has announced sweeping governmental reforms as a response to the string of terrorist attacks in his country; these reforms, unfortunately, are widely hailed as steps backward in the road towards Russian democracy. Considering that different nations face differential risk of terrorist attack, the UNCHR will need to frame guidelines for the war on terror that respect commonly held human rights while allowing for its effective execution. The Role of Corporations and Business in Maintaining Human Rights Standards

The preservation of human rights in a nation is usually thought of as the province of that national government. Global intergovernmental dialogue has helped to establish at least a semblance of standards upon which governments base their human rights policies. However, in this age of globalization, it is important to note that a major factor driving commerce and cultural radiation is the growing influence of business, particularly due to transnational corporations. At this point, more than half of the world’s top economies are not nations, but companies. Therefore, it is vital that such major world forces are directly held accountable for the effect they have on human rights wherever they operate. This includes corporate responsibility for labor rights,

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environmental rights, and cultural rights. Secretary-General Kofi Annan’s Global Compact Initiative is one example of the use of intergovernmental diplomacy as a way to encourage private cooperation in the struggle for human rights. The UNCHR will be challenged to consider ways in which states should encourage their companies to actively protect human rights standards without discouraging foreign investment and development.

World Health Organization (WHO) The objective of the WHO is the attainment by all peoples of the highest possible level of health. Health, as defined in the WHO Constitution, is a state of “complete physical, mental, and social well-being” and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

Chair: Sarah Lambino Preventing and Treating Trauma in Developing Nations According to the World Health Organization, 16,000 people worldwide die from trauma daily and thousands more are injured severely. Developed nations have decent capabilities to handle trauma cases that increase the survival rate of victims and recovery from injuries. In contrast, developing nations lack necessary resources to deal with trauma effectively resulting in more unnecessary deaths. One of the more prominent trauma issues is road safety, and how it has affected developing nations. Director-General Dr. Lee Jong-wook of WHO, stated on World Health day that 90% of deaths from automobile accidents occur in Developing Nations, a disturbingly high number. This committee will discuss methods for treating trauma and their application in developing nations. Issues to consider include approaches to prevention through education, aiding governments in sufficient infrastructure building, and effective usage of technology. Universal Access to Pharmaceuticals The World Health Organization’s main objective in its constitution is the highest attainable standard of health for all people. The topic of access to pharmaceuticals has continued to be a highly debated issue, especially concerning anti-retroviral drugs for those infected with HIV. The HIV/AIDS pandemic affects 40 million people globally, with more than half in Africa alone. WHO states that 6 million of those infected require anti-retroviral treatment, but only a small portion of the population receives treatment. Already, the WHO has established the “3 by 5 Strategy” which intends to treat three million people affected with HIV/AIDS by the end of 2005. There are multiple aspects to pharmaceutical access issue, including the intellectual property rights for such drugs. A key document created by the World Trade Organization is the agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS agreement), which discusses the relationship between drug developers and health care. In addition to intellectual property rights, other issues to consider are drug standards, education on drug resources, and social stigmas surrounding drug treatment.

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General Assembly: Special Political and Decolonization Committee (SPD) The General Assembly serves as the main deliberating organ of the United Nations. This subcommittee was specifically created to deal with issues involving: Politics and Decolonization.

Chair: Christopher Blair Conflict in Chechnya Chechnya has been marred by a strong rise in violence from terrorists or separatists, depending on who is doing the reporting. The Kremlin has repeatedly tried to represent the violence in Chechnya as part of a global terrorism problem, while western reporters have pointed to the long struggle for power in the region. The Kremlin’s policy is to appoint those loyal to them, but the separatists/terrorists counter with actions such as the assassination in May 2004 of Akhmad Kadyrov, the elected Chechen president. This only infuriates the Russians further, and gives fuel to Russia’s terrorism claims. Most recently the school hostage situation has put this area in the media spotlight, but the unrest will continue in the area regardless of attention from the news. Which label best fits for the cause of the conflict—terrorism, or separatism? What solutions can the UN bring to this deep-seeded conflict? The State of Kurdistan Kurdistan has been a transient region, shifting in and out of potential existence. The Kurds are a people that have been promised and denied a homeland repeatedly—from the British, from the Iraqi Government, and now from the Untied States. Over time they have established levels of autonomy and unity, but their freedom and sovereignty have always been in question. Now they enjoy a degree of sub-statehood, but the recent and ongoing conflict in Iraq has once again left Kurdistan with an uncertain future. An understanding of Kurdish history is critical to finding a solution to this nation-building problem. Equally important is an awareness of the current political situation in the newly forming Iraqi government. What level of sovereignty do they deserve? Who can grant them this sovereignty?

General Assembly: Economic and Finance Committee (ECOFIN) The General Assembly serves as the main deliberating organ of the United Nations. This subcommittee was specifically created to deal with issues involving: Economics and Finance.

Chair: Nicholas Carlson Financing Development

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Most developing countries lack the resources and capital to fund and promote development. This prevents those countries from improving the lives of their citizens and increasing their competitiveness in the global economy. As a result, these countries continuously fall further behind in relation to more developed states. The Millennium Development Goals are designed to correct this disparity, and the eighth goal in particular, "Develop a global partnership for development," can in part be met by the actions of the Economic and Financial Committee. Development needs financing, and such financing can only be achieved with the cooperation of both developed and developing countries. Solutions must be found collectively to the problems of proportionally low foreign direct investment in developing countries, the extreme debt burden carried by developing countries, and the inaccessibility of capital for use by private entrepreneurs in developing countries. Wealth Distribution in Oil-Producing Countries Many years ago, it was believed by many that the discovery of oil reserves would enable developing countries to find a niche in the global economy and generate wealth. The wealth would, in turn, improve the standard of living for people residing in those countries. Over the last thirty years, it has been proven that oil has not improved the standard of living. On the contrary, the standard of living is lower than before the sale of oil. Most citizens are poorer, have less purchasing power, and cannot rely on their governments for assistance. Another startling statistic is that GDP per capita has barely risen and in some cases has fallen in many oil-producing countries - they are in permanent economic malaise or recession. At the same time, a very small percentage of the populations in these countries are extremely rich and accumulating more wealth. Poor economic planning and corruption are to blame for the increasing internal disparity between rich and poor in these countries. The Economic and Financial Committee must address these deficiencies in order to avoid an appalling humanitarian and economic crisis.

UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) UNESCO is a specialized agency of the United Nations “working to create the conditions for genuine dialogue based upon respect for shared values and the dignity of each civilization and culture”. UNESCO also acts as a clearinghouse, “for the dissemination and sharing of information and knowledge”.

Chair: Jon Frost The Free Press in the Context of National Security In the past two decades, press freedom has made great strides worldwide. Increasingly, national governments are opening the doors to independent, pluralistic media outlets which are able to deliver objective, up-to-date information to the populace. This trend has not, however, been universal, and major abuses to the free press still take place - often under the guise of “national security.” Accordingly, the raiding of news offices, the imprisonment of journalists, and other forms of intimidation and censorship have been on the rise in recent years, a trend which

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UNESCO is committed to countering. At this year’s General Conference, delegates will discuss how independence and pluralism can best be supported and restored in the nations of the world; how legitimate security concerns can be balanced with the need for press freedom; and what steps can be taken to report and redress abuses of this fundamental right. Ethics of Scientific Research UNESCO has always had a stake in promoting scientific research for the good of humanity, and in the support of peace. And indeed, huge advances in science have been made in the past several years, with the potential to bring great improvement to many people’s lives. However, other uses of science, specifically in fields like medicine, agriculture, and predictably in the field of warfare have brought up new ethical questions about scientific research. This has been compounded by concerns that the increasing role of the market in scientific research encourages less ethical research pursuits, and that the tradition of research for the sake of better understanding is being threatened. What measures can UNESCO take to encourage ethical uses of new scientific knowledge? What is defined as an “ethical” use of science? Finally, in what ways can UNESCO’s program influence the debate on science ethics and lead to a more responsible use of scientific knowledge?

Middle East Multilateral Summit (MEMS) The Middle East Multilateral Summit is primarily responsible for addressing issues concerning conflict, security, political and socio-cultural matters within the region of the Middle East.

Co-Chairs: Ian Jacobs and Hala Dillsi Israeli-Palestinian Conflict: the Barrier Wall and Settlements in the Territories The question of the Territories plays a huge role in the peace process for both Israel and Palestine. The two most pressing issues is the question of the barrier wall that is in the process of being built on the edge of the Territories, and the settlements within the Territories. The International Court of Justice came out with a ruling in the case of Israel’s barrier wall this past August, ruling it illegal under the Fourth Geneva Convention. This was followed by a General Assembly resolution that called on Israel to cease its buildings in the West Bank and Gaza, as they are part of the Territories, and to dismantle portions of the wall. Israel argues that the land the barrier is being built on is land they acquired during wars with neighboring Arab countries, Egypt and Jordan. Israel has posed that areas where the wall is up have had significantly fewer terrorist attacks. Palestinians oppose the barrier, stating that it blocks entry into main cities where school, medical care, and work for many lies and that the wall is being built in the Territories. The West Bank and Gaza hold an Arab majority and have been under military occupation since the War of 1967. As the idea of a two-state solution is considered, Palestinians feel that they cannot see a viable solution without control of the Territories. Israel believes that settlements belong on land that should be a part of Israel. What can the international community do to find understanding and solutions to this issue? How important is the resolution of this issue to the overall stability in the

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region? Do you consider the question of the barrier wall a human rights issue or a security issue? What does international law say about these issues and what can the international community do? Please touch on this, as well as other possible solutions, in your position papers. Mid-East’s Role in Fighting International Terrorism The Middle East plays a huge role in international terrorism, not only as the source of many terrorist groups, but also as the target of a large number of attacks, particularly in the area of the Arab-Israeli conflict. Several Mid-East nations, including Syria, Lebanon, Iran, and others, are known to sponsor terrorist groups. Additionally, the development of weapons of mass destruction in Mid-East states could pose an international threat if they were acquired by terrorists. The role of this committee, then, is to determine in what ways the Middle East can reduce these threats. Specifically, what actions can be taken to reduce funding to terrorist groups, to increase security in key areas such as borders, ports, and airports, to prevent terrorists from acquiring WMDs, and to generally make terrorism more difficult, will be the largest issues in this topic. Additionally, it may be useful for delegates to come up with an international definition of terrorism, in order to determine the difference between terrorists and freedom-fighters.

World Trade Organization (WTO) “The World Trade Organization (WTO) is the only global international organization dealing with the rules of trade between nations. At its heart are the WTO agreements, negotiated and signed by the bulk of the world’s trading nations and ratified in their parliaments. The goal is to help producers of goods and services, exporters, and importers conduct their business.”

Chair: David Wilkerson Technical Barriers to Trade One of the primary areas of friction between WTO member countries is the realm of technical barriers to trade. These barriers are primarily differing standards between countries, for example the standard of safety for food. Standards and other regulations are the right of an individual country, however they can be used to upset the equity of trade. Nations need to work on agreements that will lay out rules for standards, and when and how they can be applied to both imported and exported goods. The struggle between fair trade practices and a nation’s right to control the standards of products available in their borders must be addressed in a manner that allows for expedited decisions and the flexibility to deal with new technologies. Current measures have proven inadequate to resolve conflicts in a quick and consistent manner, and disputes have arisen, costing nations valuable trade and consuming an inordinate amount of time. Competition Policy Policies which affect competition are very diverse in both their aims and origins, and may indirectly or directly affect the ability for firms and nations to engage in competitive business.

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Antitrust measures are essential to preserving competition, but since they are determined locally they can also be used as a trade barrier. Rules about mergers and other fundamental business practices are also inextricably linked to competition and also differ from locality to locality. Another area of interest is the practice of subsidies and other government aid to various business sectors. Currently most competition policy issues have been dealt with by the WTO on an issue by issue basis, instead of the creation of more general guidelines. Competition is essential for the global economy’s health. Local laws and practices that hinder competition hurt consumers and other nations and firms trying to do business and can lead to punitive responses by other member states. This committee will focus on working towards some realistic general guidelines concerning competition policies, building on the issue by issue responses of the past.

6. Resources WASMUN’s Research Director for 2005 is Maria Vassilieva. Please feel free to contact her at [email protected] with any questions.

WASMUN website- www.wasmun.org

United Nations Sites United Nations- www.un.org

UN Association of the United States of America- www.unausa.org

UN International Computing Center- www.unicc.org

The UN Scholars’ Workstation- www.library.yale.edu/un/index.html

Committee Websites UN General Assembly- www.un.org/ga

UN Security Council- www.un.org/sc

UN Commission on Human Rights- www.unhchr.ch/html/menu2/2/chr.htm

World Health Organization- www.who.int

International Court of Justice- www.icj-cij.org

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http://www.wasmun.org/

http://www.un.org/

http://www.unausa.org/

http://www.unicc.org/

http://www.library.yale.edu/un/index.html

http://www.un.org/ga

http://www.un.org/sc

http://www.unhchr.ch/html/menu2/2/chr.htm

http://www.who.int/

http://www.icj-cij.org/

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Country Information Sites Collection of different countries info- www.geocities.com/jhsmun/researchresources.html

International Affairs and International Organizations The International Institute of Sustainable Development- www.iisd.ca/linkages/index.html

The World Bank Group- www.worldbank.org

Additional internet resources can be found at www.wasmun.org Local Sources

• World Affairs Council 2200 Alaskan Way, Suite 450 Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: (206) 441-5910 E-mail: [email protected]

• United Nations Association (UNA) PO Box 22434 Seattle, WA 98122-0434 Phone: (206) 568-1959

Fax: (206) 652-5022

• Washington State Consular Association Directory

See appendix 14.3

Library Sources • Suzzallo Library Government Publications UN Resources University of Washington

Box 352900 University of Washington

Seattle, WA 98195-2900 • Reader’s Guide to Periodicals

• PAIS (Public Affairs Information Service)

• The New York Times, World Press Review, Foreign Affairs, The Economist, The Earth Times, and The Christian Science Monitor

Treaty Texts and Citations • “The United Nations Treaty Series” - Source of all files and recorded treaties and

agreements • “Multilateral Treaties Deposited with the Secretary General” – About multilateral treaties

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http://www.geocities.com/jhsmun/researchresources.html

http://www.iisd.ca/linkages/index.html

http://www.worldbank.org/

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• “International Legal Materials” - Provides text and ratification information Secondary Sources • Brimmer, Brenda, A Guide to the Use of United Nations Documents

• Fetzer, Mary K., United Nations Documents and Publications: A Research Guide

• Hovet, Thomas, Jr., & Erica Hovet. Annual Review of United Nations Affairs

• Muldoon, James P., A Guide to Delegate Preparation

• Osmanczyk, Edmund Jan, Encyclopedia of the United Nations International Agreements

• United Nations Association of the United States of America. A Global Agenda: Issues Before the General Assembly of the United Nations

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7. Position Papers Position Papers are due February 10, 2005. Papers are to be sent by delegates to WASMUN for review and feedback by the committee chairs. We can not guarantee feedback for late papers. Your papers will be returned to you in late February (see Timeline). Final drafts are due before the conference on March 25, 2004. Please do not send your position paper directly to the committee chair. Send your position papers to: WASMUN SAO Box 294, UW Box 352238 Seattle, WA 98195-2238 Please note: Positions Papers will not be accepted via e-mail. A Position Paper is a short outline stating your country’s position on the topic assigned to your committee. Two topics have been assigned to every committee. This means that every delegate hands in two Position Papers. Delegates to the Security Council and the International Court of Justice have different requirements and a special format for position papers. For the Security Council please see the Security Council topic synopsis at www.wasmun.org for details. For the International Court of Justice please see the topic brief above and the synopsis on the WASMUN website at www.wasmun.org. Position Papers for WASMUN 2005 must be one page, typed, single-spaced, single-sided, and shall contain three well-organized sections. Handwritten papers will not be accepted. Papers must include the following sections with one paragraph dedicated to each: 1. The problem: its history and effects, 2. Your country’s position on the topic, and 3. The details: answers to questions outlined by committee chairs in regard to a proposed

solution. Answer questions briefly in this section. Position papers do not include source citations since they are merely an outline of the topic.

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Sample Position Paper Topic 1: The Question of Palestinian Refugees Country: Palestinian National Authority (PNA) Committee: Multilateral Middle East Peace Summit School: Generic Washington High School Delegate’s name: John Doe After fifty years of turmoil in the Palestinian and Israeli territories, a number of problems have resulted from the conflict. One of the most severe of these problems is that of the over 4 million Palestinian refugees dispersed throughout the Middle East and the world, millions are still living in refugee camps. Many Palestinians feel that the refugees should be given the “right to return,” thus allowing them to repatriate back to their native land. On the other hand, the Israeli position is that repatriation is not an option because it would have damaging impacts on the population of the small country and also create a significant Palestinian majority. For the Israelis this can pose two problems. First is a question of sustainability: can the small country sustain such a substantial population increase? Second: Israeli authority in the land may be challenged by the presence of a large Palestinian population, thus threatening their control of power, and ultimately the fate of nation of Israel. The Palestinian National Authority will stand strong on the issue of the “right to return” for all Palestinian refugees. It is our belief that it is the inalienable right of our people who have been expelled from their homeland to return as Palestinian citizens. We are not alone in our belief that all Palestinian refugees should have the “right to return;” in fact many international organizations, such as Amnesty International, recognize and support the same need. The “right to return” is not only agreed upon within international organizations, but more importantly was specifically outlined in the UN resolution 194 (1948). It may also be understood that all successful peace negotiations will be contingent upon the acceptance of this policy. To respond to the first concern of the Israelis, the question of sustainability, all refugees that return to the area will return to the Palestinian territory. This makes the question of sustainability a question for the Palestinian National Authority, not for the Israeli government. As for the second concern that Israeli sovereignty in the region would be threatened by the increased Palestinian population, this is also an unfounded concern. With the support of the United States, Israel undoubtedly proves that as long as the US possesses the world’s most powerful military, and declares absolute support for Israel their existence will not be threatened. The “right to return” for all Palestinian refugees will in no way endanger the state of Israel. In fact if Israel makes the decision to concede this demand for peace, then the Palestinians may become more willing to sit at the table for further and more drastic peace concessions. One of the major points of anger for the Palestinian people is the plight of their refugees, and resolving this matter would ultimately be a progressive step toward resolving the greater problem of peace in the land.

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8. Working Papers A working paper is an informal document written in committee intended to aid the discussion of the committee. Generally, it is the first written draft of an idea that allows you to introduce an opinion to the committee. Working papers provide delegates with the opportunity to receive feedback from other delegates before taking the time to draft a formal resolution. Working papers are generally no longer than a few sentences and cover only one topic. They should be neatly written prior to submission. Working papers do not require any signatures for submission. They are never formally voted on. After being accepted by the Chair, working papers will be posted or distributed to the committee. The ideas presented in working papers are combined with opinions introduced in Committee and Caucus (see Rules - Debate) to form resolutions. 9. Resolutions A resolution is a carefully-drafted single sentence asking the assembly to express an opinion, affirm a policy, or take an action. It is a formal proposal made to the assembly by a delegate or group of delegates. If delegates wish to submit preliminary drafts of resolutions in the form of a working paper, they may do so once a committee session is declared open. However, all resolutions must be drafted while at the conference and the Chair will consider resolutions at his or her discretion. Usually, the Chair will accept the introduction of resolutions after there has been substantial debate on the topic and on working papers. Multiple resolutions per committee and per topic may be passed. To be submitted for debate, a resolution requires the approval of the Chair and the signatures of a minimum number of delegates (See Rules – Resolutions). Guidelines for Drafting a Resolution 1. A resolution must be clear and concise. It should not be longer than one page, typed and

double-spaced. 4. At the top of the resolution, the following information should be given:

• The name of the committee in which the topic was discussed, • The subject of the resolution, and • The nation or group of nations sponsoring the resolution.

2. Because it deals with a specific issue or problem, a resolution is more limited in scope than a position paper.

3. Technically, the resolution is written in sections. The sections are introduced by colons; clauses within each section are ended with a semicolon. The clauses should be numbered to aid in discussion. (see Sample Resolution)

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5. The resolution must be accurate and complete, so that delegates can decide how to vote based on the information presented (see Structure of the Resolution below).

6. A sponsor of the resolution must be prepared to explain and defend the views expressed and the action requested in the resolution. It is not appropriate or sufficient to ask delegates to vote “yes” because “this is a good resolution and it should be passed.”

1. A resolution has two main sections, each having a specific, important function. The two sections (Preamble and Operative Clause) are introduced under the next heading.

Structure of the Resolution The Preamble This section explains the purpose of the resolution and states the chief reasons for the recommendations given in the Operative Clause(s). Often, the Preamble refers to a previous UN action, a resolution, or to the United Nations Charter. This section of the resolution sometimes begins with a brief statement to introduce the main part of the section which consists of preambular clauses. For quick reference during debate, delegates number each preambular clause. Each preambular clause begins with an initiating word. Words that may be used to introduce preambular clauses are as follows: Whereas Having studied Acknowledging Emphasizing Keeping in mind Approving Observing Concerned Referring to Deeply disturbed Recognizing Realizing Sensing the need Fully aware The entire section ends with a semicolon followed by the word “therefore.” The Operative Clause This section states the policy or action that delegates are being asked to adopt. It must be clearly and succinctly worded. This section must be based on the positions and arguments you have made in the Preamble. If you use more than one operative clause, each must deal with only one complete idea and set forth a clear action to be taken. For quick reference during debate, delegates number each operative clause. This section begins with the words: “Be It Resolved that the United Nations (or Security Council),” followed by a colon. These words are followed by one or more operative clauses that begin with an action word. Some of the action words that may be used to introduce an operative clause are as follows: Affirm Proclaim Institute Authorize Recommend Reduce Condemn Reject Censure Confirm Request Attack Establish Organize Build Invite Remind Destroy Initiate Form Give Provide Encourage Urge

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Sample Resolution

Resolution: [chair will designate number] Committee: Disease Control Topic: Modernization of Health Care Sponsors: St. Lucia, Yemen, and Bahrain Signatories: Lebanon, Mali, Tunisia, China, Argentina, Malaysia [Preamble] Delegates, the members of the Disease Control Committee have studied the issue of modernizing world health care and come to the following conclusions: Realizing that poor medical facilities and under-trained medical personnel decrease the quality of life for citizens of countries throughout the world, Recognizing that proper health care supplies are insufficient and even totally absent in many areas of the world, Acknowledging that in certain countries health care systems are poor or non-existent, Deeply disturbed by the alarming growth of AIDS and other life-threatening diseases throughout the world, Observing that the governments of some countries have totally ignored the health and welfare of their citizens and focused instead on the build-up of weapons and the acquisition of personal gain for its leaders; therefore [Operative Clause] Be it resolved that the United Nations (or Security Council):

1. Urge the member nations and nations throughout the world to increase the quality and quantity of medical supplies, adequately trained medical personnel, and medical care within their borders;

2. Establish a loan program which will allow countries with documented low socio-

economic ability to acquire the funds to build medical facilities, purchase medical supplies, and attract properly trained medical personnel;

3. Authorize an oversight effort to determine if a government is willfully and systematically

endangering the health and welfare of its citizens;

4. Institute standards for training of health care workers, building and operation of health care facilities, and the manufacture, distribution, and availability of medical supplies.

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10. Amendments Amendments introduce a change, a deletion, or an addition to a resolution (see Rules - Substantive Proposals and Motions). Delegates draft amendments to: • Clarify a resolution; • Change a position stated in a resolution; or • Arrive at a consensus on the rejection or adoption of a resolution. When preparing your resolution, take into account various positions on the issue (not just the policy of your country). A well-researched, clearly-stated resolution that can be supported by many countries has a better chance of being selected for presentation, debate, and adoption. A poorly written resolution with a very narrow point of view, if selected, will be subject to a lengthy amendment process, and may end up being rejected. When listening to other delegates’ resolutions, be thinking of ways in which your country might amend or accept this resolution. When amending a resolution, your focus should be on the action recommended in the operative clause(s). However, there may be some instances in which to amend preambular clauses (e.g. wrong date, sovereignty clauses). Sometimes you will have to reverse the action in an operative clause in order for your country to support the resolution. Other times you may have to add action words to strengthen or clarify the intent of the operative clause. Your ability to make logical and well-worded amendments will make you favorable to the assembly. Amendments are debatable and need only a majority vote for adoption, but they do require the approval of the Chair and signatures from delegates in the committee. Discussion on an amendment, however, must address only the words and ideas that are actually in the amendment. Sample Amendments to the Sample Resolution There are three types of Amendments: Amend, Delete, and Add. An example of each amendment is presented below:

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I. Amends Operative Clause 3 to read: “Authorize an oversight effort by the WHO, and funded by UNICEF to determine if a government is willfully and systematically endangering the health and welfare of its citizens, especially children,” in order to clarify which body has the authority in these efforts and from where the funding will come. II. Deletes Operative Clause 4. III. Adds an Operative Clause, to read: “Recommend to the WHO distribution of adequate birth control to all citizens of the world who desire it”. 11. Oral Presentations Types of Presentations General Debate - for obtaining information and is given in the form of a prepared statement that has been written and practiced earlier. Because many countries will want to outline their positions, a time limit is set for each presentation. Substantive Debate - delegates will express their country’s policy in relation to specific proposals, and urge support or rally opposition on the part of others. These presentations are usually made on short notice and cannot be written ahead of time. You should clearly express your views to support or oppose and explain why you recommend that action as your goal. Caucus Sessions - delegates will have the opportunity to converse and debate informally. Delegations can have private meetings to discuss the topics that are on their agenda. This is a way for the delegations to prepare for the actual committee sessions. Presentation Skills Planning ahead • Research and know your country. • Prepare and practice your presentation. • Know your audience and determine their expectations. Structure • Keep your presentation focused and concise. • Introduce your agenda, deliver your content, and conclude by summarizing your key points. Delivering your presentation • Rehearse your presentation with a critical listener. • Attitude is essential. Be confident, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about what you are

saying. • Dress in formal business attire.

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12. Rules of Procedure I. General Rules Rule 1. INTRODUCTION: These rules of procedure shall be binding in all Washington State Model United Nations Committee meetings, Committees shall proceed in the following manner: A Delegate may raise his or her placard, at which time the Chair will recognize the delegate, who must state the rule under which he or she rises. Rule 2. CREDENTIALS AND ATTIRE: All participants must wear their credential badges and be dressed in Western business attire or its non-Western equivalent at all times. Any participant who does not have his or her badge will not be recognized by the Chair to speak or vote on any motion. Any Delegate found to be dressed in a manner that disrupts Committee proceedings or offends his or her fellow Delegates may be dismissed by the Chair. Rule 3. GENERAL DUTIES OF DELEGATES: Each Delegate to the conference has the duty to respect the decisions of his or her Committee Chair; obtain the floor before addressing the Committee; safeguard and advocate his or her own national interests; accord due courtesy and respect to fellow Delegates and other Conference participants; and act in accordance with the United Nations Charter and Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Any Delegate may be removed from Committee proceedings if he or she is found disrespectful of these duties. Rule 4. GENERAL DUTIES OF THE SECRETARIAT: The Secretary General shall hold his or her position throughout the Conference. He or she may designate a member of the Secretariat to act in his or her place at any meetings of the Conference. All rights and privileges accorded to the Secretariat in these Rules apply to the Secretary General, the Undersecretaries General, the Director General, and any other individual so designated by the Secretary General. The Secretary General shall provide and direct the staff required for Committee session. The Secretariat shall receive, print, and distribute resolutions of the Committees, and have custody over and ensure proper preservation of documents. Rule 5. GENERAL DUTIES OF THE COMMITTEE CHAIR: The Committee Chair shall hold his or her position throughout the Conference. The Chair may confer any or all of his or her duties upon a Committee Moderator and/or Committee Secretary, on a temporary or permanent basis. All rights and privileges accorded to the Chair in these Rules are also accorded to the Moderator and Secretary. In addition to exercising the powers which are conferred upon him or her elsewhere by these Rules, the Chair shall declare the opening and closing of each meeting of the Committee; direct its discussions; ensure the observance of these Rules; accord the right to speak; and announce decisions. He or she shall rule on Points of Order and, subject to these Rules, shall have complete control of the proceedings of the Committee and over the maintenance of order at its meetings. The Chair may, in the course of the discussion of an item, recommend to the Committee a change in its state of operations. The Chair may also, unilaterally, change any function of the Committee to expedite discussion and efficiency. Rule 6. QUORUM: One third of the present members of the Committee shall constitute a quorum. A quorum shall be assumed present unless challenged and shown to be absent. Regardless of quorum, the Chair may open any meeting and commence with its proceedings at his or her discretion. A quorum is required to have a substantive vote, i.e. a vote on a resolution and/or amendment. II. Committee Operations Rule 7. REORDERING OF THE AGENDA: The agenda will be the first order of business for the Committee. A motion to reorder the agenda requires seconding and two speakers (one in favor, one opposed). Multiple proposals for reordering the agenda are in order. Once voting has begun on motions to reorder the agenda, no further motions will be accepted. The motions will be voted on in the order of in which the Chair accepts them. The first motion to receive a majority will be adopted by the Committee. Should no proposal receive a majority vote, the Committee’s agenda will proceed in the order set forth by the Secretariat.

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Rule 8. GENERAL DEBATE: After the agenda has been determined, the Committee will be in General Debate on the first agenda topic. Speakers may speak generally on the topic being considered, and may address any resolution currently on the floor. Resolutions may be proposed only when the Committee is in General Debate on the relevant topic. Rule 9. REORDERING OF RESOLUTIONS: Immediately after closing General Debate (Rule 18), Delegates may then motion to reorder the resolutions on the floor. If there are no motions to reorder the resolutions, the Committee will immediately proceed to Substantive Debate as described in Rule 10. If a Delegate does motion to reorder the resolutions, another Delegate must second it for the Committee to vote on it. The Chair shall then call for two Delegates to rise to speak about the motion (one in favor of, one opposed). The Chair shall allow multiple motions for reordering resolutions. Once there are no further motions on the floor, the Committee will vote on the proposals in the order in which the Chair accepted them. Once voting has begun on motions to reorder the agenda, no further motions will be accepted. The first motion to receive a majority will be adopted by the Committee. Should no proposal receive a majority vote, the Committee will discuss the resolutions in the order in which the Chair accepted them during General Debate. Rule 10. SUBSTANTIVE DEBATE: After the closure of General Debate and any reordering of resolutions, Substantive Debate will commence on each resolution in the appropriate order. Speakers must limit their content to issues specifically relating to the resolution at hand or its proposed amendments. During Substantive Debate, the resolution will remain on the floor until debate is postponed or closed. Amendments may be proposed only when the Committee is in Substantive Debate on the relevant resolution. III. Debate Rule 11. SPEAKERS’ LIST: The Committee shall have an open Speakers’ List at all times during General and Substantive Debate. The Speakers’ List shall be drawn up at the start of debate. At the Chair’s discretion, a Delegate may add his or her name to the Speakers’ List by submitting a written request to the Chair, provided his or her country is not already on the Speakers’ List. The names of the next several countries to speak shall be posted for the convenience of the Committee. Should the Speakers’ List be exhausted in General Debate, the Committee shall automatically postpone debate on the agenda topic in question and move into General Debate on the next topic. Should the Speakers’ List be exhausted in Substantive Debate, the Committee shall automatically close debate and proceed with Voting Bloc on the resolution in question. Rule 12. SPEECHES: No delegate may address the Committee without having previously obtained the permission of the Chair. The Chair shall call a speaker to order if his or her remarks are not relevant to the subject under discussion or display a lack of courtesy. The Chair shall determine the time limit for all speeches. Time limits may differ depending on the motion under discussion. When a Delegate’s allotted time has expired, the Chair shall call him or her to order. Replies to Points of Information (Rule 29) are considered to be part of the speech. A speech may be interrupted only by a Point of Personal Privilege (Rule 27), and then only if the speech is inaudible or if the Delegate experiences acute discomfort that prevents him or her from fully participating in the work of the Committee. Rule13. YIELDS: During General and Substantive Debate, a Delegate may yield to the Chair, to Points of Information, or to another Delegate. If the Delegate yields to the Chair and there are no motions on the floor, the next speaker on the Speakers’ List shall have the floor. If the Delegate yields to Points of Information, the time taken to answer the Points of Information shall be included in the allotted time limit, but not the time taken to ask them. If the Delegate yields to another Delegate, the second Delegate shall have the remainder of the first Delegate’s speaking time. The second Delegate may not yield to another Delegate or to Points of Information; at the conclusion of his or her speaking time, the Delegate must yield the floor to the Chair. Rule 14. SHORT COMMENTS: Delegates may present the Committee with a short comment that must pertain directly to the last speech heard by the Committee, or, in the case of speech during which a yield was made to another Delegate, it must pertain to the part of the speech made by the second delegate. Comments are not in order for speeches pertaining to procedural motions. No Delegate may comment to the Committee without having previously obtained the permission of the Chair. The Chair shall call a Delegate to order if his or her comment is not directly

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relevant to the preceding speech, or if he or she displays a lack of courtesy. The Chair shall determine the time limit for all short comments, and the number of short comments per speech. Rule 15. UNMODERATED CAUCUS: The purpose of the Unmoderated Caucus is to facilitate discussion outside the rules of formal debate. Delegations may motion for an Unmoderated Caucus at any time when the floor is open. The Delegate must suggest a time limit and a reason for the Unmoderated Caucus. The motion will immediately be put to a vote and requires a majority to pass. The Chair may rule the motion dilatory, and may provide organizational assistance is so requested. Rule 16. MODERATED CAUCUS: As with the Unmoderated Caucus, the purpose of the Moderated Caucus is to facilitate discussion in a more flexible way than formal debate allows. Delegates may motion for a Moderated Caucus at any time when the floor is open. The same rules for motioning for an Unmoderated Caucus apply to motioning for a Moderated Caucus. If the motion passes, the Chair will open the floor to all members to discuss any issue pertaining to the suggested focus of the Moderated Caucus. Delegates shall express their desire to address the Committee by raising their placard, and will be recognized at the discretion of the Chair. No Speakers’ List shall be taken for a Moderated Caucus, and yields are out of order during that period. The format of the Moderated Caucus may be adjusted at the Chair’s discretion. Rule 17. Q&A SESSION: The purpose of the Q&A Session is to facilitate discussion in a more flexible way than formal debate allows. Delegates may motion for a Q&A Session at any time when the floor is open. The Delegate must suggest a reason for the session, a time limit, and a single Delegate or representative to be questioned. The Delegate may name him or herself as the Delegate to be questioned. The motion will immediately be put to a vote, requiring a simple majority to pass. If the motion passes, the Chair will moderate the Committee’s questions to the single delegate or representative named in the original motion. Yields are out of order during a Q&A Session. The format of the Q&A Session may be adjusted at the Chair’s discretion. IV. Procedural Motions Rule 18. CLOSURE OF DEBATE: Whenever the floor is open during General and Substantive debate, Delegates may move to close debate on the matter under discussion. A motion to close debate requires seconding. If there is objection to the motion, the Delegates who proposed and seconded the motion will speak in favor, and two other Delegates will speak against. The motion to close debate requires a two-thirds majority to pass. If the motion passes while the Committee is in General Debate, the Committee will immediately proceed to reorder the resolutions or enter Substantive Debate. If the motion passes while in Substantive Debate on a resolution, the Committee will immediately proceed to Voting Bloc on that resolution and its amendments. Rule 19. SUSPENSION OF DEBATE: When the floor is open, Delegates may move to temporarily suspend all Committee functions. Such a motion will immediately be put to a vote, requiring a simple majority to pass. Rule 20. ADJOURNMENT OF DEBATE: A motion to adjourn the Committee session is only in order at the completion of the Committee’s deliberations, and only at the specific request of the Committee Chair. This motion requires a simple majority to pass. A motion to adjourn the Conference is only in order at the conclusion of the closing ceremonies, and only at the specific request of the Secretary General. Rule 21. POSTPONEMENT AND RESUMPTION OF DEBATE: This motion may be made whenever the floor is open during General or Substantive Debate. Postponing debate can mean moving on to the next agenda topic, or, if the committee is in Substantive Debate, it can mean moving on to the next resolution. A motion to postpone debate requires two speakers (one in favor, one opposed), and requires a two-thirds majority to pass. No debate or action on an agenda topic or resolution that has been postponed is in order until the resumption of debate on that agenda topic or resolution. A motion to resume debate for either an agenda topic or a resolution requires two speakers (one in favor, one opposed), and requires a two-thirds majority to pass. Unless debate is resumed, the agenda topic or resolution that was postponed shall be debated after all others. Postponed agenda topics and resolutions shall be debated in the order in which they were postponed.

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Rule 22. RECONSIDERATION: Reconsideration of a resolution or amendment that has already been put to a final vote is not in order. Rule 23. VOTING ON PROCEDURAL MOTIONS: Official observers and non-governmental organizations may vote on procedural motions only. After the Chair has announced the start of voting on any procedural motion, no motions or parliamentary points are in order, except Points of Personal Privilege relating to acute discomfort. Each member shall have one vote, and may vote “Yes,” “No,” or “Abstain.” Each member must vote on procedural matters. A simple majority requires one more “Yes” vote than “No” votes (abstentions are not counted). A two-thirds majority requires twice as many “Yes” votes as “No” votes. Voting on procedural motions shall be done by placard. V. Substantive Proposals and Motions Rule 24. RESOLUTIONS: Any member Delegate who is present and voting may rise under this rule to propose a resolution to the Chair. A resolution requires the approval of the Chair and the signatures of Delegates in the Committee. The Chair shall determine the necessary number of sponsors and signatories. Signing a resolution does not constitute support of or require a vote in favor of the resolution. Resolutions require a simple majority to pass. Additional voting restrictions apply in some committees. The Committee may pass multiple resolutions per agenda topic. Delegates may withdraw sponsorship of a resolution. Rule 25. INTRODUCTION OF A RESOLUTION: The sponsor of a resolution may rise under this rule to introduce the resolution to the Committee once it has been approved by the Chair and distributed to the Committee. The content of the introduction shall be limited to the reading of the operative clauses, whereupon the Delegate(s) who introduced the resolution shall be granted the floor for an allotted period of time. During this time, the speaker may answer only substantive questions regarding the content and meaning of the resolution. There are no short comments or yields during the introduction of a resolution. Rule 26. AMENDMENTS: Any member Delegate who is present and voting may rise under this rule to propose an amendment to the Chair. Amendments may change, delete from, or add to a resolution. Amendments may be proposed only when the Committee is in Substantive Debate on the relevant resolution. An amendment requires the approval of the Chair and the signatures of Delegates in the Committee. The Chair shall determine the necessary number of sponsors and signatories. Signing an amendment does not constitute support of or require a vote in favor of the amendment. Amendments require a simple majority to pass. The Committee may pass multiple amendments per resolution. VI. Parliamentary Points Rule 27. POINTS OF PERSONAL PRIVILEGE: Such points must refer to the comfort and well-being of the Delegate and may not refer to the content of any speech. Points of Personal Privilege may interrupt a speech only if the speech is inaudible or if the Delegate is experiencing acute discomfort that prevents him or her from fully participating in the work of the Committee. Rule 28. POINTS OF ORDER: Such points may relate to procedural matters only, may not interrupt a speech, and may not refer to the content of a speech. Delegates should make this point only to indicate an instance of incorrect parliamentary procedure. The Chair shall rule on a Point of Order immediately and in strict accordance with these Rules of Procedure. Rule 29. POINTS OF INFORMATION: Such points may be directed to the Chair or to a speaker who has yielded to Points of Information. A Point of Information must be phrased as a single question. Rule 30. POINTS OF PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY: Such points are questions directed to the Chair concerning interpretation or understanding of the Rules of Procedure.

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VII. Voting Bloc Rule 31. SEQUENCE OF VOTING BLOC: The sequence of Voting Bloc is as follows: After the closure of Substantive Debate in Rule 18, the Chair will announce that the Committee is in Voting Bloc. The Committee begins by voting on any amendments. The Committee votes on amendments in the order in which the Chair accepted them. After voting on amendments, the Chair shall accept motions to divide the resolution under Rule 34. Should such a motion pass, the Committee shall subsequently vote on the divided resolution part by part. If not, the Committee shall vote on the resolution as a whole. Rule 35 describes voting procedures. Rule 32. CONDUCT DURING VOTING BLOC: After the Chair has announced the start of Voting Bloc, no procedural motions are in order, except requests for a roll call vote or Division of the Eesolution. Parliamentary points are in order. During voting Bloc, the Committee room will be closed, and no Delegates will be allowed to enter. Delegates should be silent and not pass notes. Rule 33. ROLL CALL VOTING: After motions for the Division of a Eesolution have been voted upon, any Delegate may request a roll call vote on the resolution or any of its divided sections. Such a motion must be seconded, and then voted on, requiring a one-third majority to pass. Roll call votes for amendments may be allowed upon the recommendation of the Chair. During a roll call vote, Delegates will be called on by country in alphabetical order and must vote “Yes,” “No,” “Abstain,” or “Pass.” Should any Delegate pass, the roll call will proceed for a second round only. Rule 34. DIVISION OF THE RESOLUTION: After debate on a substantive proposal has been closed and voting on all amendments is completed, a Delegate may move divide the resolution and vote on clauses individually or in groups. Preambulatory clauses may not be divided in this manner. The motion will immediately be put to a vote. A motion to divide requires a simple majority to pass. Only one motion to divide may pass, meaning that after one motion has passed, all other motions to divide are out of order. Rule 35. VOTING: Each Member State shall have one vote. Official observers and non-governmental organizations shall not be able to vote on amendments or resolutions. Members may vote “Yes,” “No,” or “Abstain.” Abstentions will not count either for or against the adoption of a motion. All Member States must vote on all substantive matters. Amendments and resolutions require a simple majority to pass. A simple majority requires one more “Yes” vote than “No” votes. Voting shall be done by placard, except in case of a roll call vote. Some committees will have special rules pertaining to voting, which either augment or replace the ones listed here. VIII. Other Rules of Procedure Rule 36. STATEMENTS BY THE SECRETARIAT: The Secretary General or a member of the Secretariat may, at any time, make either oral or written statements to the Committee concerning any matter. Such a statement takes precedence over any and all other motions on the floor, and may interrupt caucuses, Q&A Sessions, and Delegates’ speeches. It may not interrupt Voting Bloc. Rule 37. APPEAL: A motion to appeal the ruling of the Chair requires the presence and approval of a Secretariat member, in addition to a two-thirds majority of the Committee. The Secretariat member may deal with the appeal to his or her discretion, and may rule the appeal “dilatory” or “out of order.” Rule 38. RIGHT OF REPLY: If any Delegate should be slandered in a public forum, then the offended Delegate may motion for a Right of Reply. The Right may be granted only at the Chair’s discretion, and applies only when the Delegate’s personal and/or national dignity has been specifically slandered. Rule 39. PRECEDENCE OF MOTIONS: Points and motions will be considered in the following order:

1. Parliamentary points: • Point of Personal Privilege (Rule 27) • Point of Order (Rule 28) • Point of Information (Rule 29)

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• Point of Parliamentary Inquiry (Rule 30) 2. Procedural motions which are not debatable:

• Short Comments (Rule 14) • Suspension of Debate (Rule 19) • Unmoderated Caucus (Rule 15) • Moderated Caucus (Rule 16) • Q&A Session (Rule 17)

3. Substantive motions: • Amendments (Rule 26) • Resolutions (Rule 24) • Introduction of a Resolution (Rule 25)

4. Procedural motions applicable to the resolution or amendment under consideration: • Closure of Debate (Rule 18) • Postponement and Resumption of Debate (Rule 21)

5. Other procedural motions: • Postponement and Resumption of Debate (Rule 21) • Adjournment of Debate (Rule 20)

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13. Appendices 13.1. Country Research - Finding this information is not mandatory but will give you a comprehensive understanding of your country. Geographic

• What is your nation’s size (square miles/km)? • Which countries border your nation? • What is your nation’s relationship with these countries? • Where is your country located in the world, and how does that effect it?

Colonialism

• Has your nation ever controlled colonies? • If so, where and for how long? • What is your current relationship with your former colonies? • Was your nation ever a colonial possession? • If so, in whose sphere of influence? • When did your nation become independent? • How was independence achieved? (e.g. through revolution, or peace?) • What is your countries relationship with its former colonizer?

Social, Cultural, and Ethnic

• What is your country’s: population, population density, birth rate, literacy rate, mortality rate, and employment rate? • How do these statistics rank by world standards? • Where does your country rate on the HDI (Human Development Index- UNDP)? • What are the major religions and the percentage of the population represented in

each? • How many languages are spoken in your country? • Do language differences present problems? If so, what are they? • What ethnicities are represented in your country and in what percentages? • If your country is culturally diverse, does this create problems? If so, what are they? • What is the traditional role of women in your nation’s society? • Is there a state religion in your country? If so, are other religions tolerated?

Political

• Does your country regularly hold national multiparty elections? • How many different parties do you have?

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• Is there freedom of the press in your country? (ie. Does your government control, or in any way restrict newspapers, magazines, TV, internet, or any other media forms?)

• What role does the military play in your country? • Do all ethnic groups freely participate in the political process, including voting,

holding office, etc.? • What type of government does your country have? • How stable is your government? (ie. Are political changes regular or sporadic?)

Economic

• What is your nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Gross National Product (GNP)?

• What is the annual per capita income? • Have these figures improved/worsened over the past 10 years? • How do these figures rank internationally? • Is your nation’s economy primarily agricultural, industrial, extractive (ie. oil,

minerals), or diversified? • Does your nation receive economic aid? From whom and in what form? • Does your nation give economic aid? To whom and in what form? • How important (what percentage of GDP) is any aid, given or received, to your

national budget? • Does your country have trouble meeting its debt payments, or have they defaulted on

debts in the past? (Remember to consider both debts to other countries and to international organizations, such as the World Bank and the IMF).

• What are your nation’s natural resources? • Is your country resource-poor or resource-rich? • Are those resources accessible to your national consumption/production? • Does your country have a trade deficit? (ie. Does it import more than it exports)? • If so, what is the deficit (in dollars, as percentage of GDP)? • Who are your country’s main trading partners?

International Perspective

• Is your nation a world power and/or a regional power? • Is your nation a military power? • Does your country possess nuclear capability? • Is it threatened by a neighbor who does? • Is your country doing anything to control the number of nuclear weapons it has? • Is your nation part of any alliances? If so, which one(s), and what type? • Which nations are most friendly to your government? Least friendly?

How Your Nation Sees Itself • List the three key problems (domestic or international) facing your country.

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13.2. Country List Countries offered are marked with an X, totals are listed at the bottom. Country SC MEMS UNDP UNCHR UNESCO WHO WTO DISC ECOFIN SHC SPD Afghanistan X X X X X X X X X Algeria X X X X X X X X X X Angola X X X X X X Argentina X X X X X X X X X Australia X X X X X X X X X Bahrain X X X X X Benin X X X X X Brazil X X X X X X X X X X Bulgaria X X X X Canada X X X X X X X X X Chad X Chile X X X X X X X X X X China X X X X X X X X X X X Colombia X X X X X X Costa Rica X X X X X X X X X Cote d'Ivoire X X X X Cuba X X X X X X X X X Cyprus X DPR Korea X X X X X X X X DR Congo X X X X X Ecuador X X X X X Estonia X Ethiopia X X X X X X X X Egypt X X X X X France X X X X X X X X X X X Georgia X Germany X X X X X X X X X X X Greece X X X X Haiti X X X X India X X X X X X X X X Indonesia X X X X X X X X X

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Iran X X X X X Iraq X X X X X Ireland X X X X Israel X X X X X Italy X X X X X Japan X X X X X X X X X Jordan X X X X X X X X X X Kenya X X X X X X X X X Korea X X X X Kuwait X X X Lebanon X X X X X Liberia X X X X Country SC MEMS UNDP UNCHR UNESCO WHO WTO DISC ECOFIN SHC SPD Libya X X X X X X X X X Madagascar X X X X Malaysia X X X X X X X X X Mali X Mauritania X Mexico X X X X X X X X X Morocco X X X X X Netherlands X X X X New Zealand X X X X X X X X X Nigeria X X X X X X X X X Norway X X X X X Oman X X Pakistan X X X X X X X X X X X Palestine X Philippines X X X X X Poland X X X X X Portugal X X X X Qatar X Romania X X X X X Russian Federation X X X X X X X X X X Rwanda X X X X X

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Saudi Arabia X X X X X Sierra Leone X X X X Singapore X X X X Slovakia X X X X Spain X X X X X South Africa X X X X X X X X X Sweden X X X X Sudan X X X X X X Syria X X X X X X X X X Thailand X X X X X X X X X Tunisia X X X X X Turkey X X X X X X X X X X UAE X X X X X Uganda X X X X X X X X X Ukraine X X X X X X X X X United Kingdom X X X X X X X X X X X United States X X X X X X X X X X X Venezuela X X X X X X X X X Vietnam X X X X Yemen X X Zimbabwe X X X X X X X X X Total 15 32 37 41 39 36 33 74 77 74 75 533

13.3. Washington State Consular Directory A consul is a government official appointed to live in a foreign city to serve his or her country’s citizens and business interests there. Consulates are branch offices of a foreign Embassy, which is always located in the capital city of any country. Consuls from the various regional consulates report to the Ambassador at the Embassy. Washington State has five Consulate Generals, twenty-seven Consulates, and 3 trade offices. These diplomats and country representatives are eager to work with students representing their countries. We have informed them about the Model United Nations program. Please feel free to contact your Consul.

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Austria Consulate of Austria P.O. Box 1027 416-A East Morris Street La Conner, WA 98257 Phone: (360) 466-1100 Fax: (360) 466-1101 Contact: Consul Elisabeth Steinacker E-mail: [email protected] Belgium Consulate of Belgium 2200 Alaskan Way Suite 470 Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: (206) 728-5145 Contact: Consul H. Ronald Masnik E-mail: [email protected] Bolivia Consulate of Bolivia Parkside Bldg. Suite 25 5200 Southcenter Blvd. Seattle, WA 98188 Phone: (206) 244-6696 Fax: (206) 243-3795 Contact: Consul Ricardo Antezano Canada Consulate General of Canada 412 Plaza 600 Bldg. Sixth and Stewart Seattle, WA 98101-1286 Phone: (206) 443-1777 Fax: (206) 443-9735 Contact: Consul General Roger Simmons Chile Consulate of Chile 4413 Governor Lane Olympia, WA 98501 Phone: (360) 754-8747 Fax: (360) 754-8747 Contact: Consul Jorge Gilbert. E-mail: [email protected]

Cyprus Consulate of Cyprus 205 Lake Street South Suite 100 Kirkland, WA 98033 Phone: (425) 827-1700 Fax: (425) 889-0308 Contact: Consul Vassos M. Demetriou E-mail: [email protected] Denmark Consulate of Denmark 6204 E. Mercer Way Mercer Island, WA 98040 Phone: (206) 230-0888 Fax: (206) 230-0888 Contact: Consul Erik D. Laursen E-mail: [email protected] Estonia Consulate of Estonia 2200 Alaskan Way Suite 470 Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: (206) 467-1444 Fax: (206) 275-0146 Contact: Consul Mart Kask E-mail: [email protected] Finland Consulate of Finland 17102 NE 37th Place Bellevue, WA 98004 Phone: (425) 451-3983 Fax: (425) 671-0706 Contact: Matti Suokko E-mail: [email protected] France Consulate of France 2220 Alaskan Way Suite 490 Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: (206) 256-6184 Fax: (206) 448-4218 Contact: Consul Jack A. Cowan

E-mail: [email protected] Germany Consulate of Germany 1750 112th Ave NE Suite B217 Bellevue, WA 98004 Phone: (425) 638-0347 Fax: (425) 638-0349 Contact: Consul Christian Seifert E-mail: [email protected] Honduras Consul General Emeritus - Honduras One Union Square Suite 2303 Seattle, WA 98101-3143 Phone: (206) 624-6868 Fax: (206) 624-0812 Contact: Consul General Emeritus Dan P. Danilov Hungary Consulate of Hungary PO Box 578 Kirkland, WA 98083-0578 Phone: (425) 739-0631 Contact: Consul Helen M. Szablya E-mail: [email protected] Iceland Consulate of Iceland 5610 20th Avenue NW Seattle, WA 98107 Phone: (206) 783-4100 Fax: (206) 784-8916 Contact: Consul General Jon Jonsson E-mail: [email protected] Italy Consulate of Italy 23732 Bothell-Everett Highway Suite L Bothell, WA 98021 Phone: (425) 485-8626 Fax: (425) 822-3373 Contact: Vice Consul Franco

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Tesorieri Jamaica Consulate of Jamaica 8223 South 222nd St. Kent, WA 98032 Phone: (253) 872-8950 Fax: (425) 277-3211 Contact: Consul Enid L. Dwyer Japan Consulate General of Japan 601 Union Street Suite 500 Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: (206) 682-9107 Fax: (206) 624-9097 Contact: Consul General Fumiko Saiga Korea Consulate General of The Republic of Korea 1125 United Airlines Bldg. 2033 6th Avenue Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: (206) 441-1011 Fax: (206) 441-7912 Contact: Consul General Sohn Hoon Luxembourg Consulate of Luxembourg 725 First St. South Apt. 202 Kirkland, WA 98033 Phone: (206) 822-4607 Fax: (206) 827-6768 Contact: Consul Fred R. Cerf Malawi Consul General Emeritus - Malawi 15918 - 20th Place West Lynnwood, WA 98037-2531 Phone: (425) 745-3113 Fax: (425) 745-9520 Contact: Consul General

Emeritus Donald A. Brody Mexico Consulate of Mexico 2132 Third Avenue Seattle, WA 98121-2306 Phone: (206) 448-3526 Fax: (206) 448-4771 Contact: Consul General Mariano Lemus The Netherlands Consulate of The Netherlands 701 5th Ave, 70th Floor Seattle, WA 98104-7016 Phone: (206) 587-0700 Fax: (206) 467-8215 Contact: Consul Stephen C. Sieberson New Zealand Consulate of New Zealand 6810 51st Ave. Seattle, WA 98115 Phone: (206) 525-9881 Fax: (206) 525-0271 Contact: Consul R. John H. Bollard Norway Consulate of Norway 806 Joseph Vance Bldg. 1402 Third Avenue Seattle, WA 98101-2118 Phone: (206) 623-3957 Fax: (206) 622-9552 Contact: Consul Thomas A. Stang Peru Consulate of Peru 3717 NE 157th St. Suite 100 Seattle, WA 98155 Phone: (206) 714-9037 Fax: (206) 365-5378 Contact: Consul Miguel Angel

Velasque E-mail:m.velasque@ worldvision.org Russian Federation Consulate General of The Russian Federation 2323 Westin Building 2001 6th Avenue Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: (206) 728-1910 Fax: (206) 728-1871 Contact: Consul General Andrey V. Veklenko Seychelles Consulate of Seychelles 3620 SW 309th Street Federal Way, WA 98023 Phone: (253) 874-4579 Contact: Consul Anne Lise Church Spain Consulate of Spain 4655 138th Ave. SE Bellevue, WA 98006 Phone: (206) 747-6230 Fax: (206) 228-6239 Contact: Vice Consul Luis F. Esteban Sweden Consulate of Sweden 1215 Fourth Avenue Suite 1019 Seattle, WA 98161 Phone: (206) 622-5640 Fax: (206) 622-1756 Contact: Consul Jahn R. Hedberg E-mail: consulateofsweden.org Switzerland Consulate of Switzerland P.O. Box 397 Fall City, WA 98024 Phone: (425) 222-3574 Fax: (425) 222-4596 Contact: Consul James B. Weder

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E-mail: [email protected] Taiwan Taipei Economic and Cultural Office 2001 Sixth Avenue Suite 2410 Westin Building Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: (206) 441-4586 Fax: (206) 441-4320 Contact: Director General Frank Liu United Kingdom Consulate of United Kingdom 900 Fourth Avenue Suite 3001 Seattle, WA 98164 Phone: (206) 622-9255 Fax: (206) 622-4728 Contact: Consul David Broom Uruguay Consulate of Uruguay 1420 Fifth Avenue Suite 4100 Seattle, WA 98101-2338 Phone: (206) 223-4874 Fax: (206) 233-7107 Contact: Consul Hartley Paul

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“In the Parliament of man, the Federation of the world. There the common sense of most shall hold a fretful realm in awe,

And the kindly earth shall slumber, lapt in universal law.” - excerpt from “Locksley Hall” by Alfred Lord Tennyson

Thank you to the following people who contributed significantly to the

development of this manual:

Diane Adachi Matt Beebe Jon Frost

Elaine Grimm Kim Logan Emi Mizuki

Dana Slocomb The United Nations Association

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